Sometimes things don’t work out. And no matter how hard we work or hope, there’s heartbreak. Real life is not a fairytale; it’s complicated, confusing, and often painful. There are happy moments, but happy endings are rare and ever elusive.

A few weeks ago I shared the story of LaCroix, a three-month-old Cattle dog puppy born with spina bifida. LaCroix was rescued with several other dogs from a hoarding situation. When I met him he was an adorable bundle of joy with a zest for life and lots of puppy sparkle in his gorgeous blue eyes. He didn’t stay still for long; he loved to play, learn new things, and make people smile.